Defender hopes for Irish call

Reading manager Brian McDermott has said defender Alex Pearce still has hopes of getting into the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of the European Championships in the summer.

The 23-year old has been in outstanding form for the Royals this season, forming a formidable partnership alongside Kaspars Gorkss, that has seen us become the second-best defensive force in the Football League this season.

Pearce's manager, who has seen him come through the youth system the past couple of years told the Reading Post: 'He wants to play for the Republic of Ireland and I have spoken to their scout Don Givens and the people that monitor their players. I am sure he is on their radar."

However, McDermott has admitted it will be tough for the defender to break into the squad before the European Championships, with ROI boss Giovanni Trapatoni content on his current squad. Goalkeeper Adam Federici was also publicly praised Pearce's performances as of late.

The Oxford-born defender has a free choice of what side to represent, being able to qualify for England, Ireland or Scotland, for whom he has played at U21 level for. Although, it appears Pearce is keen to win a place in the Irish side, alongside former Royals Shane Long, Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt.